Large globular jar
decorated with four heads of cherubs

This large storage jar is one of the earliest pieces of maiolica, or tin-glazed earthenware, in the Courtauld’s collection. It is decorated with four heads of cherubs, along with other allusions to love, such as a bow and arrow, heart and flame.

Typical of Faenza is the stylised floral pattern on the neck and the trefoil cresting, seen above and beneath the band of cherubs.

Large globular jar decorated with four heads of cherubs,
Italy (Faenza or Deruta or Pesaro),16th century,
©The Samuel Courtauld Trust, The Courtauld Gallery, London.